Most economical family cars to buy in 2019

Hybrid power and efficient engines mean low running costs for the most economical family cars on sale now

The most efficient family cars are so frugal on fuel that you may never need to refill the tank after a month of school runs. Instead, you can charge them up.

Hybrid cars, which combine an electric motor and batteries with a conventional engine are available as traditional hatchbacks, or taller sport utility vehicles (SUVs) with a higher driving position and more imposing design.

Most efficient are plug-in hybrids, with large battery packs that can be charged up to power the car almost entirely on electric power for between 20 and 30 miles. This results in enormously economical mpg figures and low carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions that bring reduced company car tax. Fuel economy is far less impressive on longer trips, though.

Standard hybrid cars can't be plugged in, and gain much of their charge from energy that's normally lost during braking. This is used to assist the engine during acceleration or at slow speeds and can result in excellent fuel economy, particularly on urban roads.

There are also plenty of conventional family cars with excellent fuel economy. The most efficient have diesel engines, and all the models listed below are currently on sale, so comply with the latest and toughest emissions standards. This means that they will avoid future inner-city emission charges.

Scroll down to see the most economical family cars or click below to search for the latest deals on fuel-efficient cars,

Alternatively, if you rarely travel more than 150 miles in a trip and have space to charge a car at home, then it's worth considering a fully electric car. We've listed the best electric family cars in a separate article.

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